Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Does the Taoiseach anticipate that others of the seven imprisoned under those parts of the 1935 Act that have been deemed unconstitutional will now also appeal either their convictions or sentences, as with the case decided on this afternoon? Will the Taoiseach advise us if the Government this morning gave consideration to the implications of the High Court decision announced this afternoon relating to the release of this prisoner? Did it consider the consequences, and not only in the terms which have already been spoken of by other voices?

Rather than being repetitious I wish to explore some other elements. Is the Taoiseach aware there is a potential that this person, now released, may sue the State? Are we to face the outrage of one or more individuals taking a case against the State, such as the self-confessed beast who preyed on a 12-year old child and whose case was successful in the High Court this afternoon? Can the Taoiseach advise the House what consequences we may yet face of this issue? Did the Cabinet consider these matters this morning and has it received advice from the Minister or the Attorney General?

What are the implications for the sex offenders' register of this afternoon's decision in the wake of the Supreme Court judgment? Will it remain as it is or will one or more individuals, including the man described as "Mr. A", be able to challenge the inclusion of their names on the register?

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